Mountable tool computer input

ABSTRACT

Computing systems and input devices can include a chassis with a computing device and an input tool with a sensor, such as a pen- or rod-like input tool, that can be positioned relative to the chassis in multiple configurations. In one configuration, the tool can be spaced away from the chassis and its sensor output can cause a first output signal in response to input provided to the sensor. In another configuration, the tool can be contacting the chassis and its sensor output can cause a second output signal in response to input provided to the sensor. For example, an input tool can be stowed in a recess of a keyboard housing or device chassis, and the input tool can produce a first output when it is in the recess and a second input when it has been removed from the chassis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/789,173, filed 12 Feb. 2020, and entitled “MOUNTABLE TOOL COMPUTERINPUT,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

FIELD

The described embodiments relate generally to input device systems. Moreparticularly, the present embodiments relate to input devicesincorporating a stylus that is removably mounted to a keyboard orsimilar input device.

BACKGROUND

A variety of handheld input devices are used to detect user input. Forexample, a stylus is often used to provide input by contacting adigitizer or touch-sensitive panel of an electronic device. The touchpanel may include a touch-sensitive surface that, in response todetecting a touch event, generates a signal that can be processed andused by other components of the electronic device. A display componentof the electronic device may display textual and/or graphical displayelements representing selectable virtual buttons or icons, and the touchsensitive surface may allow a user to navigate and change the contentdisplayed on the display screen. Typically, a user can move one or moreinput devices, such as a stylus, across the touch panel in a patternthat the device translates into an input command. Some styluses can betouch- and force-sensitive to provide writing or drawing input to theelectronic device. Functions of the stylus or electronic device can alsobe remotely controlled by interacting with a sensor on the stylus whilethe stylus is handheld.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a computing systemcomprising a chassis, a computing device, and an input tool having asensor, with the input tool being positionable relative to the chassisin a first configuration and in a second configuration. In the firstconfiguration, the input tool can be spaced away from the chassis andthe computing device can be configured to output a first signal inresponse to input provided to the sensor. In the second configuration,the input tool can contact the chassis and the computing device can beconfigured to output a second signal in response to input provided tothe sensor, with the first signal being unique relative to the secondsignal.

In some embodiments, the input tool is generally rod-shaped. The chassiscan comprise a recess to receive the input tool in the secondconfiguration. The second signal can produce haptic feedback at asurface of the input tool or can indicate a scrolling input. The inputtool can be positioned at an end of a trackpad in the chassis when inthe second configuration. The input tool can be positioned at an edge ofa key-based input device positioned in the chassis when in the secondconfiguration. The input tool can be positioned at an outer side surfaceof the chassis when in the second configuration.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a computing systemcomprising a housing having a tool retention portion, a keyboardapparatus supported by the housing, a tool removably positioned in thetool retention portion, with the tool having an object sensor, and anelectronic component in electronic communication with the sensor andconfigured to detect an object at the tool retention portion via asignal generated by the object sensor.

In some cases, the electronic component can be further configured toadjust an appearance of a user interface in response to detecting theobject. The user interface can be a graphical user interface displayedby a display screen. Adjusting the appearance of the user interface caninclude changing the appearance of a light emitted from the keyboardapparatus. The object sensor can be configured to generate the signal inresponse to detecting a portion of a hand of a user. The housing canfurther comprise a cover over the tool when the tool is positioned inthe tool retention portion, wherein the object can be detectable by theobject sensor through the cover.

Still another aspect of the disclosure relates to a user interfacedevice comprising an input tool having a length, a tip, and atransducer, with the transducer being configured to sense a forceapplied at the tip, an input device body having an input tool retentionportion, wherein the input tool is movable between a first positionretained to the input device body at the input tool retention portionand a second position spaced away from the input tool retention portion,a light source within the input tool or within the input device body,and a set of indicators at a surface of the input tool and distributedalong the length of the input tool, with the set of indicators beingilluminated by the light source when the input tool is in the firstposition.

In some cases, the set of indicators can comprise a set of symbolspositioned along the length of the input tool. The user interface devicecan further comprise a light guide positioned in the input tool, withthe light guide directing light from the light source to the set ofindicators. The set of indicators can comprise a first row of indicatorsextending lengthwise along a first side of the input tool and a secondrow of indicators extending lengthwise along a second side of the inputtool, with the second side being angularly offset relative to the firstside about a longitudinal axis of the input tool. The set of indicatorscan be configured to be illuminated by diffusion of light through theinput tool and can comprise a display positioned at or within thesurface of the input tool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a computing system.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a computing system including acomputing device and an input tool.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a lower housing of a computingdevice.

FIGS. 4A-4C show side views of embodiments of input tools.

FIG. 5 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input toolas taken through section lines 5-5 in FIG. 3 .

FIG. 6 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and inputtool.

FIG. 7 shows partial top views of a housing and input tool.

FIG. 8 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input toolbeing illuminated.

FIG. 9 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and input toolbeing illuminated.

FIG. 10 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and inputtool being illuminated.

FIG. 11 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess andinput tool being illuminated.

FIG. 12 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and inputtool.

FIG. 13 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess andinput tool.

FIG. 14 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing recess andinput tool.

FIG. 15 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing and inputtool.

FIG. 16 shows a diagrammatic perspective view of an input tool beingoperated in a recess of a housing.

FIG. 17 shows another diagrammatic perspective view of an input toolbeing operated in a recess of a housing near a trackpad.

FIG. 18 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess andinput tool.

FIG. 19 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess andinput tool.

FIG. 21 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and inputtool with airflow passages in the housing.

FIG. 22 shows a diagrammatic end section view of a housing and inputtool with a cover.

FIG. 23 shows a diagrammatic side section view of a housing recess andinput tool.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodimentsillustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood thatthe following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments toone preferred embodiment. To the contrary, they are intended to coveralternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included withinthe spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by theappended claims.

Makers and users of electronic devices and systems are in constant needfor user interface improvements to make them easier, more efficient, andmore comfortable to use. Input devices such as touchscreens canbeneficially achieve these goals by being adaptable and reconfigurableto the context and content of the user's utilization of the touchscreenelectronic device. For example, some computing devices, such as laptopcomputers, can have a touch screen positioned in or adjacent to akeyboard of the device that can be configured to provide many morefunctions than a set of traditional keys. The touch screen can showinformation in addition to information shown on a main display screen,can simulate key-based typing inputs (and can change which keys aresimulated and shown), can receive touch input and gesture input (e.g.,one or more sliding touches) across its surface, and more.

However, an ancillary touch screen can be difficult to use in somecases. Touch typists may dislike using the touch screen because it lackstactile feedback as compared to a set of mechanical, moving keys. Thetouch screen is also generally positioned near the user's hands andtherefore may be prone to being obscured from the user's vision by theirown hands. Also, even when the user looks at the touch screen, it ispositioned at a different focal distance from the user as compared tothe main display, so the user must readjust their head or eyes toeffectively read and interact with the touch screen, particularly whenthe touch screen is positioned at a flat angle while the main display isnot. Furthermore, as the benefits of stylus-based input for computingdevices have become more and more apparent over time, the inclusion ofan ancillary touch screen in the electronic device in addition to thestylus can make the device become overly complex, expensive, anddifficult to use. Styluses can have touch sensitivity and displaycapability, so using a stylus and separate ancillary touch screen withthe same device can be redundant.

Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure relate to computingsystems in which a computing device is configured to interact with aninput tool, such as a stylus, that can be stored in or on a chassis orhousing of the computing device. The input tool can be used as a firsttype of input device (e.g., a touch- or force-sensitive writinginstrument) when it is removed from the chassis and can be used as asecond type of input device (e.g., a touch-sensitive button, a touchpad, a set of simulated keyboard keys, or a mechanical input interface)when it is stored on or in the chassis. The input tool can betouch-sensitive at its outer surfaces in a manner that allows a user totap, touch, or press the outside of the tool to provide a signal to thecomputing device whether or not the tool is mounted to the computingdevice. Also, in some cases, the input tool or chassis can comprisefeatures for displaying information to a user, and the information canbe visible to the user on or through the input tool when it is handheldor mounted to the chassis.

Accordingly, the input tool can be used to replace or replicate many ofthe functions and capabilities of an ancillary touch screen while alsobeing able to provide separate stylus-like functionality, therebyreducing the redundancy, cost, and size of the computing system. Theinput tool can comprise an internal display or set of indicators thatinteracts and electrically communicates with a keyboard or otherassociated computing device when the tool is positioned in a socket orrecess of the keyboard chassis, and the tool can therefore functionsimilar to an ancillary touch screen or a set of keyboard keys when itis the socket or recess. Removing the tool from the chassis can changethe function of the tool or change the meaning and function of itselectrical and sensor signals so that it is operable as a stylus or wandinput device.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1 through 23 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figuresis for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed aslimiting.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a computing system 100 including achassis 102, a computing device 104, and an input tool 106. The inputtool 106 can be positionable relative to the chassis 102 in a firstconfiguration 107 and a second configuration 108. In the firstconfiguration 107, the tool 106 can be mounted to, held against, lockedto, supported by, disposed within or attached to the chassis 102. Forexample, a magnet or mechanical latch can hold the tool 106 to a portionof the chassis 102. See, e.g., FIG. 18 and its related descriptions. Inthe second configuration 108, the tool 106 can be spaced away from thechassis 102 or substantially spaced away from the chassis 102 (e.g.,only the tip 110 or another small fraction of the tool 106 contacts apart of the chassis 102). The tool 106 can also comprise a sensor 112electrically connected to an electronic communication interface 114 ofthe tool 106.

The computing system 100 can comprise a computer such as a laptopcomputer, tablet computer, desktop computer, or other device configuredto receive input from an input tool 106 and associated with the chassis102. For example, the chassis 102 can be a housing or enclosure of akeyboard, notebook computer body, a tablet computer body, a computeraccessory or case, or a similar device. The chassis 102 can contain thecomputing device 104 (e.g., when the chassis is part of a laptopcomputer) or the computing device 104 can be part of a separatecomponent to which the device of the chassis 102 is connected (e.g., thecomputing device 104 is in a desktop or tablet computer housing and thechassis 102 is a keyboard electrically connected to the computerhousing; see FIG. 2 ).

The computing device 104 can comprise computer components enabled toreceive and send electrical signals between component devices of thesystem 100 and to and from a user. For example, the computing device 104can comprise a processor, memory device, electronic storage device,display screen, input adapter interface (e.g., to communicate withelectronic communications interface 114 of the tool 106 or to connect toa keyboard), output adapter interface (e.g., to communicate and controla connected display screen), related components, or combinations thereofconnected to each other via a bus interface. Accordingly, the computingdevice 104 can be enabled to electronically interface with the inputtool 106 when it is in the first or second configuration 107, 108 byreceiving signals from (and potentially sending signals to) the inputtool 106.

In the first and second configurations 107, 108 of the tool 106, thesensor 112 of the tool 106 can sense or detect user input. For example,the sensor 112 can comprise an input device (e.g., a touch sensor ormechanical switch) that, when operated by a user, can generate a signalthat is transmitted to the computing device 104 using the communicationsinterface 114 or that is detected by the computing device 104 (e.g.,using an antenna). Thus, a user can interact with the sensor 112 toprovide an input signal 116 when the tool 106 is in the firstconfiguration 107 or an input signal 118 in the second configuration108. The input signals 116, 118 can be the same or different from eachother. The tip 110 can also comprise a sensor that can be used toprovide an input signal (e.g., 116 or 118) via the communicationsinterface 114 when the tip 110 is operated (e.g., touched or pressedagainst a surface) in the first or second configuration 107, 108.

In some embodiments, the input signals 116, 118 sent to the computingdevice 104 can be identical. Accordingly, operations of the sensor 112or tip 110 can send the same information to the computing device 104whether the tool 106 is in the first or second configuration 107, 108.The computing device 104 can receive and react to the input signals 116,118 identically in either configuration 107, 108. For example, a touchdetected by the sensor 112 can be treated as a mouse “click” input inboth cases.

In some embodiments, the computing device 104 can receive or react tothe input signals 116, 118 differently. The computing device 104 canreact differently to each input signal 116, 118 by storing or displayingdifferent information for the user for each input signal 116, 118 or byinterpreting the input signals 116, 118 differently. Accordingly,different input signals 116, 118 can cause different operations to beperformed by the computing device 104. For instance, one of the inputsignals 116, 118 can be treated as a binary input (e.g., an on/offpermanent or temporary toggle or switch), and the other signal can betreated as a graded or variable input (e.g., a measurement of force orposition on the tool 106). In some embodiments, one input signal 116,118 can be treated as a keyboard key input (e.g., a key-based typinginput), and the other input signal can be treated as a remote controlinput for the computing device 104. Additional variations andembodiments are described in connection with the following figures.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a computing system 200 including acomputing device 202 having a lower housing 204 and an upper housing206. In some embodiments, such as when the computing device 202 is alaptop or notebook computer, a hinge 208 joins the lower and upperhousings 204, 206. In some embodiments, the lower and upper housings204, 206 can be separate components in electrical communication witheach other by a wired or wireless interface, such as when the computingdevice 202 is a desktop or tablet computer and components in thehousings 204, 206. Thus, at least one of the upper and lower housings206, 204 can contain a processor, memory, a battery, an electronicstorage medium, a wireless electronic communications interface, adisplay, and other computer features and components typically found in alaptop or tablet computing device.

The upper housing 206 can include a display screen 210 in thisembodiment. In some cases, the upper housing 206 can comprise componentsconfigured to sense and detect the presence of an input tool (i.e., 218)at its surface, such as a touch sensor for detecting the presence of aninput tool 218 touching the upper housing 206 at the display screen 210.

The lower housing 204 can include a keyboard 212 having a set of keys, asubstantially flat input area 214 (e.g., a touch-sensitive trackpad ordigitizer/pen tablet region), and a tool retainer portion 216. FIG. 3shows a perspective view of the top of the lower housing 204. As shownin FIGS. 2 and 3 , the lower housing 204 can have a top surface 220, afront surface 222, lateral side surfaces (e.g., 224), and a back surface226. The input area 214 and tool retainer portion 216 can be positionedat the top surface 220. In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion216 can be located on another side (e.g., surface 222, 224, or 226) ofthe lower housing 204, as shown, for example, by tool retainer portion228 in FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 also shows that the tool retainer portion 216 canbe located at a back end of the lower housing 204, wherein the toolretainer portion 216 is positioned between the keyboard 212 and the backsurface 226 or hinge 208. In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion216 is positioned amid keys of the keyboard 212, as shown by optionalkeys 230 in FIG. 3 . The tool retainer portion 216 can therefore havekeyboard keys 230 positioned on two opposite sides of the tool retainerportion 216. In some embodiments, the tool retainer portion 216 haskeyboard keys (e.g., keys 230 and keyboard 212) that are on three sidesof the tool retainer portion 216. The three sides of the retainerportion 216 can be positioned in three orthogonal directions from acenter of the tool retainer portion 216. Thus, the tool retainer portion216 can hold an input tool 218 adjacent to or among a set of keyboardkeys. This can be beneficial in making the input tool 218 easy to accessand use when it is operated to provide key-based typing input andsimilar inputs as it is stored in the tool retainer portion 216. See,e.g., FIG. 7 and its related descriptions.

The input tool 218 can comprise an elongated shape configured to behandheld by a user in a manner similar to a wand, stylus, or pencilwhile it is being used and separated from the lower housing 204. Thus,in some embodiments, the input tool 218 can be referred to as having arod- or pen-like shape. The input tool 218 can be referred to as being auser interface device or a computer input interface. FIGS. 4A-4C showvarious embodiments of input tools 300, 302, 304 that can be used asinput tool 218 with lower housing 204.

Each input tool 300, 302, 304 can comprise a first end 306 and a secondend 308 separated by an elongated body 310. In some embodiments, atleast one end 306, 308 is touch- or force-sensitive, wherein a sensor inthe input tool 300, 302, 304 is configured to transduce a force or touchapplied to the end 306, 308. For example, the first end 306 can beforce-sensitive to transduce pressure applied to the first end 306 whena user contacts the first end 306 to a surface in a writing or drawingmovement. In some embodiments, the first end 306 can be tapered similarto a pen or pencil.

The elongated body 310 can contain electronic components within theinput tool 300, 302, 304. In some embodiments, the elongated body 310contains a touch or force sensor (e.g., sensor 112) configured to detecta capacitive touch or input force of a user object (e.g., a finger orappendage) against the outer surface of the elongated body 310 or one ofthe ends 306, 308. The touch or force sensor can be configured to detecta touch or force on various different portions of the input tool 300,302, 304. For example, as shown by input tool 300, the input tool 300can have a touch- or force-sensitive side input region 312 extendingonly partially along an overall length of the elongated body 310.Accordingly, the input tool 300 can have a non-input segment 314 along aremainder of the elongated body 310. The non-input segment 314 can bepositioned along a portion of the elongated body 310 having parallelsides 316, 318 (e.g., a cylindrical section or a polygonal prism sectionof the elongated body 310).

In some embodiments, such as input tool 302, the touch or force sensorcan be configured to detect a touch or force on a full length of theelongated body 310, as indicated by input region 320. In someembodiments, an end input region 322 can also be included at at leastone end 306, 308. Thus, the full length of the elongated body 310 (e.g.,along the entire cylindrical or polygonal prism-shaped midsection of theinput tool 302) can be configured to receive an input touch or force.Furthermore, in some cases, the touch or force sensor can be configuredto detect a position of the application of the touch or force againstthe outer surface of the elongated body 310, wherein a longitudinalposition (i.e., along axis X in FIG. 4B) and a rotational/angularposition (i.e., along direction Y in FIG. 4B) can be determined by thesensor. In some embodiments, the sensor only detects one position (alongX or Y). In some embodiments, the sensor only detects whether an inputis being provided or not (i.e., it produces an on/off, binary-typesignal).

In another embodiment, the input tool 304 can comprise a touch or forcesensor that has an input region 324 with at least one middle section326, 328 that is not touch- or force-sensitive. A middle section 326,328 can be a location where other input is provided, such as positionsof side buttons or switches on the input tool 304. In some embodiments,a middle section 326, 328 is positioned external to an inductivecharging coil within the elongated body 310. The coil can be used toprovide electrical power to the input tool 304 when the tool 304 ismounted to a tool retainer portion 216. See also FIG. 21 .

In some embodiments, the input tools 300, 302, 304 can comprise at leastone display or internal light source. For example, the input regions312, 320, 324 can comprise a display or light source (e.g., atouchscreen display). In some cases, a non-input segment 314 or 326/328can comprise a display a light source or light guiding feature. In thismanner, the display or internal light source can be used to provide orindicate information to a user through the surface of the input tool300, 302, 304. See also FIGS. 14-15 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , the tool retainer portion 216 of the lower housing204 can comprise a recess, groove, or socket in which an input tool 218can be held or secured. FIG. 5 shows a side section view of an examplerecess 500 in a housing 502 with an input tool 504 located in the recess500. The section view can be taken along section lines 5-5 in FIG. 3 .As shown in FIG. 5 , the recess 500 can have a bottom surface 506, afront side surface 508, and a rear side surface 510 that are positionedunder and below a top surface 512. The recess 500 can therefore have agenerally rectangular-U-shaped cross-sectional profile in which theinput tool 504 contacts the bottom surface 506 thereof. In someembodiments, the recess 500 can have two side surfaces, such as a recesswith a generally V-shaped cross-sectional profile. In some embodiments,the recess 500 can have another cross-sectional shape, such a curve(e.g., a round profile or round U-shaped profile) or a profile havingmore than three side surfaces.

The input tool 504 can have a cross-sectional profile with a curved sidesurface 514 and a relatively flattened or planar side surface 516. Insome embodiments, the input tool 504 has an entirely round or ellipticalcross-sectional profile. In some embodiments, the input tool 504 canhave a polygonal cross-sectional profile, such as a hexagonal profile,as shown by input tool 600 in FIG. 6 . Various cross-sectional profilescan provide different grip features for the comfort and convenience ofthe user handling the input tool 500/600. Additionally, different sidesurfaces can display different information to the user. For example, ininput tool 600, a top surface 602 can display one set of information(e.g., a first set of symbols or a first display screen), and sidesurfaces 604, 606 can display other information (e.g., a second or thirdset of symbols or display screens). Each set of information cantherefore be angularly offset or displaced from another set ofinformation. In some embodiments, the information shown on one side(e.g., 602) of the input tool 600 can also be displayed on a differentside (e.g., 604/606 or bottom surface 608) so that the input tool 600can display the same amount or type of information to the user no matterwhich surface 602, 604, 606, 608, etc. is facing upward. Thus, multiplerotated orientations of the input tool 600 relative to the recess 500can display different information (or different instances of the sameinformation) to a user.

The input tool 504 can be positioned in the recess 500 with a curvedsurface 514 contacting one of the side surfaces of the recess 500. Insome embodiments, the input tool 504 can be positioned in the recess 500with a planar side surface 516 contacting one of the side surfaces. Witha planar side surface 516 contacting the recess 500, the input tool 504can be less able or unable to roll in the recess 500. With a planar sidesurface 516 exposed and facing out of the recess 500, information or adisplay on the planar side surface 516 can be more visible to a viewerwhile the input tool 504 is held in the recess 500. With a curvedsurface contacting the recess 500, the input tool 504 can be rolled orotherwise rotated relative to the recess 500 more easily. See also FIGS.16-17 and their related descriptions.

The recess 500 can have a depth substantially equal to the thickness Tof the input tool 504. The thickness T can be a minimum thickness of theinput tool 504 (as opposed to the diameter of the curved surface 514which is larger than thickness T). In this manner, the top-most surface(e.g., 516) of the input tool 504 can be substantially level with or atthe same vertical position as the top surface 512 of the housing 502.Thus, the input tool 504 can be positioned in the recess 500 withoutprotruding from the top surface 512. This can be beneficial to avoidcontact between the input tool 504 and objects above the top surface512, such as when an upper housing (e.g., 202) closes and the displayscreen (e.g., 210) is positioned over the keyboard 212.

In some embodiments, the recess 500 and input tool 504 can havedimensions wherein the top surface of the input tool 504 protrudes fromthe recess 500 to a height substantially equal to the height of the keysof the keyboard 212. In this manner, the top surface of the input tool504 can be comfortably positioned in the same horizontal plane as thekeys so that the user does not need to reach higher or lower relative tothe keys to reach and touch the input tool 504. In some embodiments, theinput tool 504 can have a top surface that is positioned below the planeof the top surface 512 of the housing. Thus, the input tool 504 can beplaced in a manner less likely to be accidentally touched by the user ordislodged from the recess 500.

FIG. 7 shows partial top views of a housing 700 having a recess 702 anda keyboard 704. An input tool 706 is positioned longitudinally alignedwith and within the recess 702. The input tool 706 can have a pointedtip 708 positioned at one end of the recess 702 and a relatively flattertip at the opposite end thereof. The length of the recess 702 can belarger than the total longitudinal length of the input tool 706 in orderto accommodate the entire length of the input tool 706. The width of therecess 702 (shown vertically in FIG. 7 ) can also be sized to receivethe width of the input tool 706. A small gap or space can be formedbetween the outer limits of the input tool 706 and the inner limits ofthe recess 702. A user can therefore use a finger to press down on thetip 708 to make the input tool 706 rotate out of the recess 702 and tobe graspable by the user on its side surfaces.

The recess 702 can be positioned adjacent to the keyboard 704, whereinat least portions of the input tool 706 are visible or accessible to theuser as the user moves their hands across the keys to provide typinginput. The recess 702 can be positioned parallel to a row of keys (e.g.,the number-row keys, as shown in FIG. 7 ). In some embodiments, therecess 702 can be parallel to a top row of keys of the keyboard 704(e.g., the row of keys configured to be furthest from the user or therow of keys furthest from the spacebar). In some embodiments, the recess702 can have a length substantially equal to a width of a set of keys ofthe keyboard 704, such as a length equal to the width of about 10 keysto about 12 keys. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the recess 702 canreceive an input tool 706 having a longitudinal length in a range of thewidth of about 9 keys to about 11 keys.

The size and position of the recess 702 and input tool 706 can enablethe user to more easily interact with the input tool 706 while it isstored in the recess 702. In some embodiments, touches applied to theinput tool 706 can be sensed, detected, or transduced while it is storedin the recess 702. Thus, while the input tool 706 is positioned in therecess 702, the user can provide input to the input tool 706 in additionto providing input via the keyboard 704. The input provided through theinput tool 706 can be used, for example, to trigger a function of a keyof a conventional keyboard that is missing from the keyboard 704 or thatduplicates a function of the keyboard 704. For example, the input tool706 can comprise a surface 710 that, when touched or pressed by theuser, is sensed as being a user input similar to a key function of akeyboard, such as one of the function keys (i.e., “F-keys”, such as F3,shown in FIG. 7 ). Contact with other portions of the surface of theinput tool 706 can be detected and produce other outputs, such as theoutputs of other function keys (e.g., F1, F2, etc.), system functioncontrols (e.g., screen brightness, keyboard backlight brightness, volumecontrols, power, sleep, display settings, application settings (e.g.,font, size, or color for a word processing or art application), etc.),or other conventional keyboard outputs (e.g., letters, symbols, modifierkeys, etc.). As a result, the input tool 706 can be used to providekeyboard input similar to a row of keys while it is positioned in therecess 702. When the user touches the same surface 710 while the inputtool 706 is displaced from the recess 702, the input can be ignored orcan be interpreted differently (e.g., replicating a mouse “click”).

A set of indicators 712 (e.g., words, letters, numbers, icons, shapes,lights, etc.) can be visible at the surface of the input tool 706 atleast while it is positioned in the recess 702. In some embodiments, theindicators 712 are recessed into or protrude from the surface of theinput tool 706. For example, the indicators 712 can be engraved into theinput tool 706. In some embodiments, the indicators 712 are displayedusing a display screen (e.g., a touch screen) within the input tool 706(see FIG. 14 ). In other embodiments, the indicators 712 comprise adifferent material or color than the surrounding material of the inputtool 706 (e.g., black or clear plastic indicators flush inset into awhite plastic housing or metal indicators flush inset into a woodenhousing) (see FIGS. 9, 12-13, and 15 ). In further embodiments, theindicators 712 are visible due to light projected, reflected, ordiffused onto the outer surface of the input tool 706 or lightprojected, reflected, or diffused through the material of the housing ofthe input tool 706 (see FIGS. 8, 10, 11, and 15 ).

FIG. 8 illustrates an end view of an example embodiment of a housing 800having a recess 802 in which an input tool 804 is positioned. Thehousing 800 can comprise a light source 806 in a sidewall 808 of therecess 802. The light source 806 can be configured to project light 810against a side surface 812 of the input tool 804 that is reflected anddiffused in a manner visible to the user. Accordingly, an indicator 712can be generated by reflecting light from a light source 806 that isemitted onto a side surface of the input tool 706.

In some embodiments, the light source 806 can comprise a laser, alight-emitting diode (LED) (e.g., a micro LED), a similar device, orcombinations thereof. The light source 806 can be positioned in therecess 802 or can pass through a wall of the recess 802. For example,the light source 806 can be used to backlight a keycap (e.g., forkeyboard 704), and some of the light from that backlight can beredirected (e.g., by a reflector, fiber optic, light guide, or similarfeature) from beneath the keycap to the sidewall 808 of the recess 802.

The light source 806 is shown at the top end of the recess 802 near themouth thereof in FIG. 8 . The light source 806 can therefore bepositioned at or above a top half of the input tool 804 (e.g., abovemid-height line 814). This can be beneficial for an input tool 804having a generally rounded cross-sectional profile since the light 810can be reflected in an upward direction and out of the recess 802 towardthe user. In some embodiments, a light source 815 can be positionedbelow the midline of the tool 804 and can reflect light 816 around thelower portion of the recess 802 without reflecting directly upward orout of the recess 802. In this manner, the recess 802 can have diffuseillumination that can help illuminate one or both elongated sides of theinput tool 804 rather than having localized illumination or a specificsymbol showing on the tool. In various embodiments, a plurality of lightsources (e.g., 806, 815) can be spaced out along the length of therecess 802 to provide multiple points of illumination for the tool 804and recess 802. These multiple points can make the illumination of thetool 804 and recess 802 more even and consistent.

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of a housing 900 having a recess 902 inwhich an input tool 904 is positioned. In this case, a light source 906is positioned in a sidewall 908 of the housing 900, and the input tool904 comprises a transparent portion 910 and an opaque portion 912. Aninternal reflective surface 914 can be located between the transparentportion 910 and the opaque portion 912. Light 916 emitted from the lightsource 906 can be reflected from the reflective surface 914 and out ofthe recess 902 to a user's viewing position.

The reflective surface 914 can comprise a smooth, mirror-like finish ofthe transparent portion 910 or opaque portion 912 so that parallel light916 is reflected at substantially the same angle from the reflectivesurface 914. Accordingly, the light source 906 can beneficially be anarray of light sources (e.g., an array of pixel lights or a displayscreen) configured to generate indicators (e.g., 716) that are reflectedfrom a mirror-like, flat surface (e.g., 914) of the input tool 904. Theindicators can therefore have an appearance of being generated fromwithin the input tool 904. In some embodiments, the transparent portion910 can be omitted, at least where the light source 906 is located, andthe reflective surface 914 can be an external surface of the input tool904. The light source 906 can have a longitudinal length substantiallyequal to a length of the reflective surface 914 or a length of atouch-sensitive portion of the input tool 904.

FIG. 10 shows another similar end view of a housing 1000 having a recess1002 in which an input tool 1004 is located. An outer surface 1006 ofthe input tool 1004 can contact an inner surface 1008 of the recess1002. A light source 1010 in the recess 1002 can emit light 1012 intothe outer surface 1006, and the light 1012 can be diffused through theinput tool 1004. At the sides or top of the input tool 1004, the light1012 can make the surfaces of the input tool 1004 appear to glow or haveits own internal light source. To do so, the input tool 1004 cancomprise a translucent material configured to allow light to diffuse andpass through the input tool 1004 from the outer surface 1006 to surfacesviewable by the user.

In some embodiments, the input tool 1004 can comprise partially diffusematerial, wherein some surfaces (e.g., top surface 1014) can comprise atranslucent material, and other surfaces (e.g., the sides of the tool)can comprise opaque material configured to prevent transmission of lightfrom the light source 1010. Accordingly, certain portions of theperimeter of the input tool 1004 can be internally illuminated by alight source 1010 that is external to the perimeter of the input tool1004.

FIG. 11 shows a diagram of a side view of a housing 1000 as viewed fromsection lines 11-11 in FIG. 3 . In some embodiments, multiple lightsources 1010, 1016, 1018 can be configured to emit light into the inputtool 1004 at different points along the length of the input tool 1004.The input tool 1004 can therefore have multiple segments 1100, 1102,1104 that each diffuse light received from a separate light source 1010,1016, 1018. In some embodiments, the input tool 1004 can compriseinternal dividers 1106, 1108 configured to reduce or prevent diffusinglight from one segment (e.g., 1100) into a neighboring segment (e.g.,1102). In this manner, different functions or status indicators can bevisually displayed by different segments 1100, 1102, 1104 of the inputtool 1004. For example, each segment 1100, 1102, 1104 can indicate adifferent feature of the computing device or can signify a differentkeyboard function that is performed when the segment 1100, 1102, 1104 istouched or pressed by the user. Using the light sources 1010, 1016,1018, the input tool 1004 does not need to have indicators (e.g., 712)on its surface to be able to indicate that different inputs can beprovided at each of the segments 1100, 1102, 1104 because the lightpassing through the input tool 1004 provides a visible indication foreach segment.

FIG. 12 illustrates another end-facing section view of a housing 1200having a recess 1202 containing an input tool 1204. Similar to lightsource 1010 in FIG. 10 , a light source 1210 can contact an outersurface 1206 of the input tool 1204 and can emit light into the surface1206 of the input tool 1204. In this case, the light 1212 is emittedinto a light guide portion 1214 of the input tool 1204 which extendsthrough an external portion 1216 of the input tool 1204. The light guideportion 1214 extends diametrically across the input tool 1204. In someembodiments, the light guide portion 1214 can extend through a curved orangled path through the input tool 1204 that connects one outer surface1206 to another, opposite outer surface 1217.

The external portion 1216 can comprise an opaque material, and the lightguide portion 1214 can comprise a transparent or translucent material.Thus, when light 1212 is emitted into the surface 1206, the light 1212can reflect or diffuse through the light guide portion 1214 before beingvisible at an outer surface (e.g., top surface 1217) of the input tool1204. In some embodiments, the light guide portion 1214 can comprise asurface shape perimeter or geometry that forms at least one symbol orother indicator. Thus, light 1212 passing through the input tool 1204can be emitted from a portion of the top surface 1217 that forms a shapeor signal to the user such as an indicator 712. In some embodiments,light can be internally reflected by sides of the light guide portion1214 or external portion 1216 in order to preserve brightness of thelight 1212 as it emerges from the top surface 1217. Accordingly, thelight guide portion 1214 can comprise a material configured for totalinternal reflection of the light 1212 that enters at the outer surface1206 before it reaches the top surface 1217.

FIG. 13 shows a diagrammatic side view of a housing 1300 having a recess1302 containing an input tool 1304. In this case, the input tool 1304can comprise a set of light guides 1306, 1308, 1310, 1312 that extendfrom a terminal end 1314 of the input tool 1304, longitudinally throughat least a portion of the length of the input tool 1304, and end at ornear a top surface 1316 of the input tool 1304. A light source 1318 ofthe recess 1302 can emit light into the terminal end 1314, and light canthereby enter the light guides 1306, 1308, 1310, 1312 and can bedirected through the light guides to the top surface 1316. The ends ofthe light guides 1306, 1308, 1310, 1312 at the top surface 1316 can bespaced apart to indicate different features and functions at differentparts of the length of the top surface 1316.

In some embodiments, a cap or retainer 1320 can be positioned betweenthe terminal end 1314 and the light source 1318, and the retainer 1320can help direct light from the light source 1318 into the light guides1306, 1308, 1310, 1312. In some cases, the light source 1318 can bepositioned in the retainer 1320. The retainer 1320 can have an innersurface that follows a contour or surface shape of the terminal end 1314and can therefore help prevent leakage of light around the terminal end1314. For example, the retainer 1320 can have a surface having a radiusof curvature that is substantially equal to a radius of curvature of theterminal end 1314 of the input tool 1304.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the retainer 1320 can apply pressureto the input tool 1304 to ensure tight-fitting contact between theterminal end 1314 and the retainer 1320. For example, the retainer 1320can comprise a resilient material configured to deflect when contactingthe terminal end 1314 or the entire retainer 1320 can move relative tothe recess 1302 (e.g., via a spring-loaded fitting) to come into contactwith the input tool 1304. The user can place the input tool 1304 intothe recess 1302 and, with the same application of force, apply pressureto the retainer 1320 to move the retainer into a tight fit against theterminal end 1314.

In some embodiments, the retainer 1320 can comprise electrical contactsconfigured to engage a connector of the input tool 1304, therebyproviding electrical power or other electrical data communicationbetween the input tool 1304 and the housing 1300. The electricalcontacts can be radially spaced apart at the terminal end 1314 and onthe retainer 1320 in a manner that allows electrical connection betweenthe input tool 1304 and the retainer 1320 in multiple differentorientations of the input tool 1304.

FIG. 14 shows an end-facing section diagram of another embodiment of ahousing 1400 having a recess 1402 in which an input tool 1404 islocated. In this embodiment, the input tool 1404 can comprise aninternal light source 1406. The light source 1406 can comprise an LED,bulb, or similar light-producing device, and in some cases the lightsource 1406 can comprise a display screen (e.g., a backlit liquidcrystal display (LCD), micro-LED or organic LED (OLED) display, orsimilar apparatus). The light source 1406 can emit light that is visiblethrough an outer surface 1408 of the input tool 1404 and that is madevisible to the user. The light source 1406 can be configured to displaypatterns, colors, shapes, symbols, or other indicators. In someembodiments, the light source 1406 is configured to duplicate orsupplement information displayed on a main display (e.g., 210).

In some embodiments, the light source 1406 is at the outer surface 1408of the input tool 1404, and in some cases, the light source 1406 isrecessed below the outer surface 1408 or is covered by a transparent ortranslucent cover 1410 (e.g., a clear panel, lens, light diffuser, orrelated device). The outer surface 1408 in FIG. 14 is shown at the topof the input tool 1404 while the tool is located in the recess 1402 sothat the top of the tool 1404 can be viewed by the user without thesides of the recess 1402 blocking line of sight. In some embodiments,the input tool 1404 can be rotated, and the outer surface 1408 can bepositioned at a side or bottom of the input tool 1404. The light emittedfrom the light source 1406 can emerge toward the sides 1412 or bottom1414 of the recess 1402 to either restrict viewing of the light tocertain viewing angles or to illuminate the recess 1402. The internallight source 1406 can be powered by an internal energy storage device(e.g., a battery) of the input tool 1404 or can be powered by currentinduced via a wireless power transmission coil in the housing 1400. Seealso FIG. 20 and its related descriptions herein. In someconfigurations, multiple light sources 1406 can be positioned along thelength of the input tool 1404.

FIG. 15 shows a diagrammatic side view of an electronic device 1500having a transparent cover 1502, a sensor array 1504, and a display1506. The electronic device 1500 can be a computing device 202 ofcomputing system 200. The cover 1502 can protect the sensor array 1504and display 1506 from being contacted by external objects (e.g., inputtool 1508 or a user's appendage). The sensor array 1504 can beconfigured to sense the position or presence of an object (e.g., inputtool 1508) contacting or slightly above the cover 1502. Thus, the sensorarray 1504 can be a capacitive touch sensor array configured to detect achange in capacitance caused by an object at the cover 1502. The display1506 can comprise a set of light-emitting devices 1510 (e.g., OLED ormicro-LED pixels) that emit light through the sensor array 1504 andcover 1502. Alternatively, the display 1506 can comprise a backlit LCDor similar conventional display device.

The input tool 1508 can comprise an internal light source 1512 and atransparent or translucent tip portion 1514. The display 1506 can emit acolor or set of colors from the light-emitting devices 1510 that arepositioned adjacent to or below the tip portion 1514 of the input tool1508. A signal representing the color or set of colors from thelight-emitting devices 1510 adjacent to or below the tip portion 1514can be transmitted from a device controller (e.g., 104) to a receiver orcontroller of the input tool 1508 (e.g., via a wireless electroniccommunications interface 114), and the signal can be used to control thecolor properties (e.g., hue, saturation, and brightness) of the lightsource 1512. In some embodiments, the color properties of the lightsource 1512 can be controlled to be a reflection of the color propertiesof the light-emitting devices 1510. For example, the light source 1512can be controlled to emit light having a similar hue as the color of thedevices 1510 or an average hue (or other representative hue) of multiplepixels or light-emitting devices 1510 in the display 1506. As the inputtool 1508 is moved relative to the display 1506, the color properties oflight emitted by the light source 1512 can be changed corresponding todifferent light-emitting devices 1510 that are in different adjacentparts of the display 1506.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of an electronic device housing 1600having a recess 1602 in which an input tool 1604 is located. The inputtool 1604 can comprise a rounded outer surface 1606 that istouch-sensitive, similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 4A-4C and otherinput tools described in connection with the other figures herein. Theinput tool 1604 can be configured to be rotatable about its longitudinalaxis while positioned in the recess 1602, as indicated by arrows 1608and 1610. The input tool 1604 can be prevented from rolling off of thehousing 1600 by contacting side surfaces of the recess 1602 as itrotates. Alternatively, at least one counter-roller positioned in thehousing 1600 can roll in contact with and beneath the input tool 1604 tohelp prevent the input tool 1604 from translating along the direction ofmotion of a user appendage 1611 moving along an axis 1612 perpendicularto the longitudinal axis of the input tool 1604. Additionally, aretainer (e.g., 1320) can keep the input tool 1604 from moving out ofthe recess 1602.

As the input tool 1604 rotates about its longitudinal axis, ameasurement device can measure and determine the amount or rate ofangular displacement of the input tool 1604. For example, themeasurement device can comprise an inertial measurement unit (IMU)within the input tool 1604 can determine the amount of rotation by useof an accelerometer, gyroscope, or similar apparatus. Alternatively,rotation of a counter-roller or movement of an outer surface of theinput tool 1604 can be measured by a sensor in the housing 1600. In someembodiments, a touch-sensitive outer surface 1606 can track the positionof an object (e.g., 1611) relative to the outer surface 1606 as theinput tool 1604 rotates, and the movement of the object across the outersurface 1606 can be used to determine the rotation of the input tool1604. For example, the circumferential distance that an object movesaround the outer surface 1606 as the input tool 1604 rotates can be usedto determine the angular displacement of the input tool 1604.

The rotation of the input tool 1604 can be measured and tracked as auser input to the electronic device. In some embodiments, the rotationof the input tool 1604 can be used to control functions of an electronicdevice that are conventionally controlled by a rotatable wheel-likedevice, such as a mouse wheel that controls scrolling, zoom, or sizeadjustment functions. Rotation of the input tool 1604 can thereforecause the electronic device to perform those scrolling, zoom, or sizeadjustment functions. Furthermore, in some embodiments, rotation of theinput tool 1604 can be used to adjust the position of a symbol or objectdisplayed on a main display (e.g., 210) of the electronic device. Forinstance, rotating the input tool 1604 about its longitudinal axis cancause a mouse or text cursor to move vertically across the main display.

In some embodiments, a sensor (e.g., a touch sensor) can track theposition of an object (e.g., 1611) as it moves relative to the outersurface 1606 of the input tool 1604 in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the input tool 1604, such as in directions 1614 and1616 in FIG. 16. The position of the object can be used to controlscrolling, zoom, or size adjustment at a main display or other functionsof an electronic device that are conventionally controlled by a mouse orscroll wheel. In some embodiments, movement of the object across theouter surface 1606 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the input tool1604 can cause a mouse or text cursor to move horizontally across a maindisplay. Accordingly, rotation of the input tool 1604 can provide afirst type of control signal to the electronic device (e.g., moving acursor or scrolling vertically), and translation of a user objectrelative to the outer surface 1606 can provide a second type of controlsignal to the electronic device (e.g., moving a cursor or scrollinghorizontally). The movement of the input tool 1604 can be confined tothe limits of the recess 1602, thereby making the input tool 1604 acompact scrolling or pointing input device that is alternatively usableas a writing, drawing, or pointing tool when removed from the recess1602.

The recess 1602 can be positioned at various locations on the housing1600. In some cases, the recess 1602 can be located at an end of, oralong a side of, a keyboard, similar to the recess 702 of FIG. 7 . FIG.17 shows an embodiment wherein the recess 1602 is located adjacent to atrackpad 1700 touch input device. A user object can provide touch inputto the trackpad 1700 to control the electronic device. In addition, thesame user object can provide touch or rotational input to the input tool1604 in the recess 1602.

The input provided to each input device 1700, 1604 can have asubstantially similar function (e.g., both can control cursor movement),can supplement each other, or can be used for separate functions. Forexample, a motion of the user object detected by the trackpad 1700 canbe supplemented when a user object causes movement of the input tool1604. One user object (e.g., one hand of the user) can provide input tothe trackpad 1700 while the another object (e.g., their other hand) canprovide input to the input tool 1604. Accordingly, multiple functions ofthe electronic device can be controlled independently and simultaneouslyby the trackpad 1700 and input tool 1604.

Furthermore, in some cases, a motion of a user object can be continuedacross each input device 1700, 1604. For example, when a user performsan upward sliding movement across the trackpad 1700 (e.g., along arrow1702) with a user object, the object can transition from contacting thetrackpad 1700 and engage contact with the input tool 1604, therebyrotating the input tool 1604 about its longitudinal axis, as indicatedby arrow 1704. Thus, providing input to the input tool 1604 caneffectively extend a gesture or touch input provided to the trackpad1700. A cursor moving upward on a display (as the user object movesalong arrow 1702) can continue to move upward as the input tool 1604begins to rotate due to the user object coming into contact with theinput tool 1604 at the edge 1706 of the trackpad 1700. Similarly, adiagonal swiping movement (i.e., along arrow 1708) of a user object onthe trackpad 1700 can be continued as the user object reaches the edge1706 and rotates the input tool 1604 while moving longitudinallyparallel to the axis of the input tool 1604, as indicated by arrows 1704and 1710.

Moreover, input that is provided to the input tool 1604 can be continuedor extended as the user object transitions from the input tool 1604 tothe trackpad 1700. A rotational movement of the input tool 1604 (e.g.,arrow 1712) followed by linear movement across the trackpad 1700 (e.g.,arrow 1714) can result in a continuous result on a display screen, suchas a continuous vertical movement of a cursor or continuous verticalscrolling. Similarly, rotational and lateral movement of the user objecton the input tool 1604 as indicated by arrows 1712 and 1716 that isfollowed by movement of the user object on the trackpad 1700 along arrow1718 can result in continuous diagonal movement of an object on a maindisplay.

In some embodiments, the input tool can be used to provide feedback to auser or can have features by which it is retained to the housing. FIG.18 shows a diagrammatic side view of a housing 1800 having a recess 1802in which an input tool 1804 is located. The input tool 1804 can comprisea magnetic element 1806, and the recess 1802 can comprise a magneticelement 1808 configured to be paired with and located adjacent to themagnetic element 1806 of the input tool 1804.

The magnetic elements 1806, 1808 can comprise magnetic or magnetizablematerials that are magnetically attracted to each other, therebyproviding a force attracting the input tool 1804 into the recess 1802and helping to retain the input tool 1804 in the recess 1802 while it isnot being carried by the user. For example, the magnetic elements 1806,1808 can comprise a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, a semi-permanentmagnet (i.e., a magnet with reversible polarity), a ferrous/magneticallyattracted material, or a similar apparatus or material. Accordingly, themagnetic elements 1806, 1808 can magnetically hold the input tool 1804to the housing 1800.

In some embodiments, a housing magnetic element 1808 can be positionedin the housing 1800 separate from the recess 1802, such as being withina tool retainer portion (e.g., 228) on a front, side, or top surface(e.g., 222, 224, 220) of the housing 1800. See also FIG. 2 . Forexample, a magnetic element 1810 can be positioned at a front outersurface 222 of lower housing 204.

At least one of the magnetic elements 1806, 1808 can also be connectedto a feedback driver. For example, as shown in FIG. 18 , the housingmagnetic element 1808 can be connected to haptic driver 1812. In someembodiments, the tool magnetic element 1806 can also be connected to ahaptic driver in the input tool 1804. The haptic driver 1812 cancomprise a winding, a coil, an additional magnetic element, a motor, apiezoelectric driver, a vibrator, or another structure configured tomove one of the magnetic elements 1806, 1808, the housing 1800, or theinput tool 1804. In some embodiments, the feedback driver can comprise avisual or audible indicator configured to produce a feedback indicatorthat is visible or audible to a user, such as a light source 1512.Furthermore, in some embodiments a magnetic element 1806, 1808 cancomprise temporarily reversible polarity, and the computing system canbe configured to change the polarity of one or both magnetic elements1806, 1808 to repel each other and to help eject the input tool 1804from the recess 1802. For example, a magnetic element 1806, 1808 cancomprise an aluminum-nickel-cobalt (Al—Ni—Co) magnetic structure enabledto have its polarity reversed in response to application of an inputelectrical signal to the magnetic element. A magnetic element withreversible polarity can be used to repel the input tool 1804 from therecess 1802.

In some embodiments, when the input tool 1804 is located in the recess1802 and a user object 1814 (e.g., appendage) contacts, is detected by,or applies a force to the input tool 1804, the feedback driver (e.g.,1812) can produce feedback for the user. For example, when a userpresses the input tool 1804 into the bottom of the recess 1802, thehaptic driver 1812 can produce a haptic output that slightly shakes,vibrates, pulses, or otherwise drives movement of the input tool 1804relative to the recess 1802. In some embodiments, the haptic driver 1812can apply a magnetic force to the tool magnetic element 1806 to causethe input tool 1804 to move. Similarly, the feedback driver can providea visual or audible feedback indicator to the user (e.g., production oflight or sound). In some embodiments, the feedback driver's feedback isactuated by application of a threshold amount of force applied to theinput tool 1804 by the user object. In this manner, the output of thefeedback driver can be provided only when the user presses against theinput tool 1804 with a force in excess of the threshold. Alternatively,one type of feedback can be provided when a force below the threshold isapplied (e.g., a small vibration or emission of light), and a secondtype of feedback can be provided when a force exceeding the threshold isapplied (e.g., a heavier vibration, brighter light, or audible noise).

When a haptic feedback is produced using the haptic driver 1812, theinput tool 1804 can be moved parallel to a longitudinal axis 1816 or ina radial direction 1818 relative to the longitudinal axis 1816. Thus, insome cases the haptic feedback force can drive movement of the inputtool 1804 in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction ofthe input force applied by the user object 1814, parallel to the lengthof the recess 1802, or parallel to the longitudinal axis 1816 of theinput tool 1804.

Furthermore, in some cases the magnetic elements 1806, 1808 can beconfigured to transduce movement of the input tool 1804 relative to thehousing 1800 or to transduce a force applied along the longitudinal axis1816. For example, a user object 1814 can apply a force at leastpartially directed parallel to the longitudinal axis 1816 of the inputtool 1804, and the magnitude of the force component that is parallel tothe longitudinal axis 1816, or the sliding movement of the input tool1804 relative to the recess 1802, can be detected or measured as a typeof user input to the input tool 1804. In some embodiments, when theinput tool 1804 has moved in this manner, the magnetic elements 1806,1808 can then bias the input tool 1804 back to a default position in therecess 1802, thereby allowing the user to repeat the sliding inputagain, similar to how a mouse button returns to a default position afterit has been “clicked”. Accordingly, the input tool 1804 can laterally orlongitudinally translate or deflect to “click” in addition to rotatingor providing haptic feedback when contacted or pressed by a user.

FIG. 19 shows another embodiment of a housing 1900 having a recess 1902containing an input tool 1904. In this embodiment, the input tool 1904comprises an internal feedback driver 1906 and a sensor 1908 configuredto detect a user object 1909 contacting or applying a force to the outersurface 1910 of the input tool 1904. The sensor 1908 can be a sensor 112described in connection with FIG. 1 . The feedback driver 1906 cancomprise a haptic, audible, or visual feedback generator configured toactuate in response to a signal generated by the sensor 1908 (or aconnected controller) when the user object 1909 is detected. Forexample, in some embodiments, the feedback driver 1906 can be a lightsource (e.g., 1512). The feedback driver 1906 can therefore indicate tothe user (via feel, sight, or sound generated within the input tool1904) that the sensor 1908 has detected the user object 1909 or anaction performed by the user object 1909. Furthermore, when the inputtool 1904 is separated from the housing 1900, the feedback driver 1906can be used to generate feedback in response to other user inputs to theinput tool 1904, such as touching or pressing against the outer surface1910, pressure against the tip 1912, or reorientation of the input tool1904 in space (e.g., via an IMU; see FIG. 23 ).

FIG. 20 provides a diagrammatic end view of a housing 2000 having arecess 2002 in which an input tool 2004 is located. The housing 2000 cancomprise an inductive winding or coil 2006 adjacent to a bottom surface2008 of the recess 2002. In some embodiments, the coil 2006 can belocated in a side surface of the recess 2002. The input tool 2004 cancomprise a corresponding winding or coil 2010 configured to bepositioned proximate to the surface 2008 in which the housing coil 2006is positioned. These coils 2006, 2010 can be paired to provide currentto the input tool 2004 via induction, and the current can be used topower electronic components in the input tool 2004, such as to charge abattery or power a display (e.g., 1406) in the input tool 2004.

In some embodiments, the input tool 2004 can comprise an additional coil2012 configured to be used in place of, or to supplement, the other toolcoil 2010. Thus, the input tool 2004 can receive current byapproximating a first side surface 2014 with the bottom surface 2008 andthereby positioning the first coil 2010 within current-generating rangeof the housing coil 2006. The input tool 2004 can alternatively receivecurrent by approximating the opposite side 2016 to the bottom surface2008 and thereby positioning the second coil 2012 within range ofhousing coil 2006. In this manner, the input tool 2004 can have multipledifferent orientations relative to the recess 2002 in which the inputtool 2004 can receive current. In some embodiments, multiple coils canbe positioned in the housing 2000, and the input tool 2004 can compriseone coil that is configured to be positioned near one of the multiplehousing coils. Moreover, the housing 2000 and input tool 2004 can eachcomprise multiple coils for an even greater number of possible workingpositions.

FIG. 21 shows a diagrammatic end view of a housing 2100 of an electronicdevice having a recess 2102 containing an input tool 2104. In thisembodiment, the input tool 2104 can be used as an airflow guide for thehousing 2100. For instance, the housing 2100 can comprise an exhaustpassage 2106 with an exhaust opening 2108 linking the exhaust passage2106 to the recess 2102. Airflow through the exhaust passage 2106 can bedriven via a fan 2110 or other airflow driver (e.g., convection) throughthe opening 2108 and into the recess 2102. The airflow can be directedupward and out of the recess 2102 rather than passing mainlyhorizontally from the opening 2108 due to the airflow coming intocontact with and being redirected by a side surface 2112 of the inputtool 2104. Accordingly, the presence of the input tool 2104 can helpimprove directing heated air away from the housing 2100.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the housing 2100 can comprise anintake opening 2114 that leads to an intake passage 2116. Airflow can bedrawn by a fan 2118 or other airflow driver through the opening 2114 andinto the intake passage 2116. For example, the fan 2118 can draw coolexternal air into the housing 2100 to cool internal components of theelectronic device. The input tool 2104 can comprise a side surface 2120configured to help direct airflow that comes from a position outside therecess 2102 into the intake opening 2114. In some embodiments, the fans2110, 2118 can be a single fan configured to provide both exhaust andintake flow.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the housing 2100 can comprise both anexhaust opening 2108 and an intake opening 2114, and the input tool 2104can beneficially block the direct passage of airflow from one opening2108 to the other opening 2114. In other words, the intake opening 2114can face the exhaust opening 2108, and the input tool 2104 can comprisea surface positioned directly between the openings 2114, 2108 in amanner that prevents flow along a linear path between the openings 2114,2108. The bifurcation of the recess 2102 and airflow into and out of therecess 2102 can help ensure that cooler air passes into the intakeopening 2114 and that warmer air passes from the exhaust opening 2108,thereby improving the efficiency of the cooling system of the electronicdevice. More efficient flow paths around the input tool 2104 can allowthe recess 2102 to have smaller (e.g., less visible and less susceptibleto intake of debris) airflow openings.

FIG. 22 shows a diagrammatic end view of another embodiment of a housing2200 having a recess 2202 holding an input tool 2204. A cover 2206 canbe positioned at the top end of the recess 2202 or above the recess 2202to reduce or eliminate visibility of the inside of the recess 2202 whenthe cover 2206 is closed and to help retain the input tool 2204 in therecess 2202. In some embodiments, the cover 2206 can be translucent ortransparent to allow light coming from the input tool 2204 or within therecess 2202 to be visible external to the cover 2206. In someembodiments, the cover 2206 can comprise a material and thickness thatenables the input tool 2204 to detect a user touch applied to the cover2206. For example, the cover 2206 can comprise a material that issubstantially transparent to or that transfers an electric fieldgenerated by a user object (e.g., a finger) contacting the cover 2206,and the input tool 2204 can therefore sense the object from the oppositeside of the cover 2206.

The cover 2206 can be connected to the housing 2200, for example, by ahinge 2208. The hinge 2208 can allow the cover 2206 to pivot relative tothe housing 2200, such as by allowing the cover 2206 to pivot to theposition at indicator numeral 2210. Accordingly, the cover 2206 can moveabout the hinge 2208 to expose or cover the input tool 2204 and recess2202. Exposing the recess 2202 can enable the user to insert or removethe input tool 2204, and covering the recess 2202 can limit access tothe input tool 2204 and provide additional security in retaining theinput tool 2204 to the housing.

In some embodiments, the cover 2206 and input tool 2204 can bereversibly attachable and detachable from each other, wherein the inputtool 2204 can be attached to the cover 2206 and can move with the coveras it rotates, as indicated by indicator 2212. Thus, the input tool 2204can move relative to the recess 2202 as the cover 2206 moves relative tothe housing 2200. Additionally, the input tool 2204 can be attachable tothe cover 2206 when the cover 2206 is in an open configuration (i.e., at2210) so that the cover 2206 stows the input tool 2204 in the recess2202 as the cover 2206 moves to the closed configuration. In someembodiments, the cover 2206 is not attached to the input tool 2204, andmovement of the cover 2206 relative to the housing 2200 can actuate ormanipulate a mechanism in the housing 2200 that pushes the input tool2204 or otherwise ejects it out of the recess 2202, thereby making iteasier for the user to remove the input tool 2204 from the recess 2202.For example, rotating the cover 2206 can actuate an electromagnet (e.g.,1808) to eject the input tool 2204 from the recess 2202.

FIG. 23 illustrates another diagrammatic side view of a housing 2300having a recess 2302 holding an input tool 2304. This input tool 2304 isshown with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 2306 configured totransduce translation or rotation of the input tool 2304. For instance,the IMU 2306 can track rotation of the input tool 2304 about itslongitudinal axis in a manner similar to an IMU of input tool 1604. TheIMU 2306 can also be used to track tilt and translation of the inputtool 2304. Thus, output signals of the IMU 2306 can be used to determinewhether the input tool 2304 is positioned external to or within therecess 2302 or whether or not the tool 2304 is positioned on a flatsurface. When the input tool 2304 is tilted or determined to be outsidea recess 2302 or out of contact with the housing 2300, the input tool2304 can provide a first type of functionality, such as functionalitysimilar to a pen input device, input tool 1508, and a first set of touchsignals when a user touches or presses against the outer surface of theinput tool 2304. When the input tool 2304 is contacting the recess 2302,lying on a horizontal surface, or against a housing 2300, it can providea different type of functionality, such as functionality similar to theinput tools described in connection with FIGS. 5-14 and 16-22 .Accordingly, tracking the position and orientation of the input tool2304 can control how movements and inputs provided to the input tool2304 are interpreted by a controller.

In some cases, the input tool 2304 can be used as a wand-like device toprovide inputs to an electronic device (e.g., via gesture control usingthe input tool 2304). The position and orientation of the input tool2304 can be used as inputs to control applications and features of theelectronic device. Furthermore, the electronic device can comprisetracking components to supplement or enhance the position andorientation tracking of the input tool 2304. For example, the electronicdevice can comprise an infrared emitter/receiver or a camera configuredto detect the input tool 2304 in space relative to the housing of theelectronic device. Movement of the input tool 2304 while being detectedby the sensors of the electronic device can improve the determination ofthe position and orientation of the input tool 2304 using the IMU 2306.In some embodiments, the recess 2302 can comprise a sensor to detect thepresence of the input tool 2304 in a manner supplementing the output ofthe IMU 2306 to determine the orientation of the input tool 2304 withinthe recess 2302.

Referring again to FIG. 2 , the computing system 200 can comprise adisplay screen 210 used to display graphical information to a user. Insome embodiments, the positioning or detection of the input tool 218relative to the lower housing 204 (e.g., relative to a tool retainerportion 216) can affect the provision of information via the displayscreen 210. For example, a first piece of information 250 can be shownon the display screen 210 when the input tool 218 is retained in ordetected in the tool retainer portion 216. Upon removal of the inputtool 218 from the lower housing 204, the first piece of information 250can be replaced or added to by a second piece of information 252 on thedisplay screen 210. Thus, movement of the input tool 218 relative to thelower housing 204 or relative to the tool retainer portion 216 can causea change in the information displayed by the display screen 210. In someembodiments, the display screen 210 can show neither the first norsecond pieces of information 250, 252, and movement of the input tool218 can initiate the display of one or both pieces of information 250,252.

In some embodiments, pieces of information 250, 252 shown on the displayscreen 210 can include a menu or set of graphical symbols indicating astatus of the input tool 218. For example, movement of the input tool218 can cause the computing system 200 to display information regardingthe battery state of charge or other information about the settings orfeatures of the input tool 218. The information 250, 252 can be shownpersistently or temporarily on the display screen 210.

In some embodiments, the computing system 200 can detect the presence ofa user object adjacent to the tool retainer portion 216. For example,the input tool 218 can comprise a capacitive or motion sensor (e.g., aninfrared emitter/receiver) configured to detect the presence of anappendage of the user over the tool retainer portion 216. The input tool218 can be positioned in the tool retainer portion 216 when the userobject is detected. Upon detection of the user object using a sensor ofthe lower housing 204, in the tool retainer portion 216, or of the inputtool 218, the computing system 200 can be configured to display a pieceof information 250 or 252 on the display screen 210.

In some embodiments, the information 250/252 shown can indicate afunction of the computing system 200 that will be enabled or actuatedupon the user object making contact with (or applying sufficient forceto) the input tool 218 while it is in the tool retainer portion 216. Forexample, an input tool 218 can display a duplicate set of the set ofindicators 712 across the display screen 210 as part of the information252. In some embodiments, no indicators 712 are provided on the inputtool 218, and the indicators 712 are instead only shown in theinformation 252 on the display screen 210. In some embodiments,indicators 712 are provided on the input tool 218, and supplementary orsecondary functions of the input tool 218 are shown in the information252 on the display screen 210. In some embodiments, removing the userobject from proximity to the tool retainer portion 216 (e.g., moving itover the keyboard 212 or away from the lower housing 204 entirely) canchange or remove the information 250, 252 shown on the display screen210.

In some embodiments, the position of the user object relative to thetool retainer portion 216 can be detected, and the information 250/252shown can be controlled as a reflection of the position of the userobject. For example, if the user object is positioned adjacent to theleft end of the input tool 218, the left end of a menu of information252 can be highlighted. Similarly, the position of the display ofinformation 250/252 can move according to the position of the userobject relative to the input tool 218.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the input area 214 can comprise aninternal display or indicator 254. The input tool 218 can be used toprovide input at the input area 214, such as by tapping or swiping onthe input area 214. In some embodiments, information displayed on theinternal display or indicator 254 can change in response to theoperation of the input tool 218 on the input area 214. For example, auser may making a writing motion on the input area 214 with the inputtool 218, and the display or indicator 254 can display a line as if theuser were writing on the input area 214. The information shown by theinternal display or indicator 254 can change (e.g., being activated ordeactivated) based on the status and position of the input tool 218relative to the tool retainer portion 216. For example, the internaldisplay or indicator 254 can be dimmed or off when the input tool 218 isstowed at the tool retainer portion 216, and the internal display orindicator 254 can be brightened or show different information when theinput tool 218 is removed from the tool retainer portion 216 or when theinput tool 218 is detected or determined to be positioned adjacent tothe input area 214.

Features and aspects of the input devices and housings described inconnection with one embodiment of the present disclosure can be combinedwith or replaced by features and aspects of other embodiments disclosedherein. Accordingly, the embodiments described herein can be used inmany different combinations and permutations to obtain a variety ofcomputing systems and input devices that are not described in connectionwith a single figure or numerical indicator herein.

To the extent applicable to the present technology, gathering and use ofdata available from various sources can be used to improve the deliveryto users of invitational content or any other content that may be ofinterest to them. The present disclosure contemplates that in someinstances, this gathered data may include personal information data thatuniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate a specificperson. Such personal information data can include demographic data,location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, TWITTER® ID's,home addresses, data or records relating to a user's health or level offitness (e.g., vital signs measurements, medication information,exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying orpersonal information.

The present disclosure recognizes that the use of such personalinformation data, in the present technology, can be used to the benefitof users. For example, the personal information data can be used todeliver targeted content that is of greater interest to the user.Accordingly, use of such personal information data enables users tocalculated control of the delivered content. Further, other uses forpersonal information data that benefit the user are also contemplated bythe present disclosure. For instance, health and fitness data may beused to provide insights into a user's general wellness, or may be usedas positive feedback to individuals using technology to pursue wellnessgoals.

The present disclosure contemplates that the entities responsible forthe collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage, or other use ofsuch personal information data will comply with well-established privacypolicies and/or privacy practices. In particular, such entities shouldimplement and consistently use privacy policies and practices that aregenerally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmentalrequirements for maintaining personal information data private andsecure. Such policies should be easily accessible by users, and shouldbe updated as the collection and/or use of data changes. Personalinformation from users should be collected for legitimate and reasonableuses of the entity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimateuses. Further, such collection/sharing should occur after receiving theinformed consent of the users. Additionally, such entities shouldconsider taking any needed steps for safeguarding and securing access tosuch personal information data and ensuring that others with access tothe personal information data adhere to their privacy policies andprocedures. Further, such entities can subject themselves to evaluationby third parties to certify their adherence to widely accepted privacypolicies and practices. In addition, policies and practices should beadapted for the particular types of personal information data beingcollected and/or accessed and adapted to applicable laws and standards,including jurisdiction-specific considerations. For instance, in the US,collection of or access to certain health data may be governed byfederal and/or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability andAccountability Act (HIPAA); whereas health data in other countries maybe subject to other regulations and policies and should be handledaccordingly. Hence different privacy practices should be maintained fordifferent personal data types in each country.

Despite the foregoing, the present disclosure also contemplatesembodiments in which users selectively block the use of, or access to,personal information data. That is, the present disclosure contemplatesthat hardware and/or software elements can be provided to prevent orblock access to such personal information data. For example, in the caseof advertisement delivery services, the present technology can beconfigured to allow users to select to “opt in” or “opt out” ofparticipation in the collection of personal information data duringregistration for services or anytime thereafter. In another example,users can select not to provide mood-associated data for targetedcontent delivery services. In yet another example, users can select tolimit the length of time mood-associated data is maintained or entirelyprohibit the development of a baseline mood profile. In addition toproviding “opt in” and “opt out” options, the present disclosurecontemplates providing notifications relating to the access or use ofpersonal information. For instance, a user may be notified upondownloading an app that their personal information data will be accessedand then reminded again just before personal information data isaccessed by the app.

Moreover, it is the intent of the present disclosure that personalinformation data should be managed and handled in a way to minimizerisks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Risk can beminimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting data once itis no longer needed. In addition, and when applicable, including incertain health related applications, data de-identification can be usedto protect a user's privacy. De-identification may be facilitated, whenappropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth,etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of data stored (e.g.,collecting location data a city level rather than at an address level),controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users),and/or other methods.

Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use ofpersonal information data to implement one or more various disclosedembodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the variousembodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing suchpersonal information data. That is, the various embodiments of thepresent technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all ora portion of such personal information data. For example, content can beselected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based onnon-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personalinformation, such as the content being requested by the deviceassociated with a user, other non-personal information available to thecontent delivery services, or publicly available information.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the describedembodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe specific details are not required in order to practice the describedembodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specificembodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustrationand description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit theembodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations arepossible in view of the above teachings.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computing device system, comprising: acomputing device including: a housing having a surface; and a firstmagnetic element positioned in the housing; an input tool mountable tothe surface of the housing and having a second magnetic elementmagnetically attractable to the first magnetic element to retain theinput tool to the surface of the housing; and a haptic driver connectedto at least one magnetic element of the first magnetic element or thesecond magnetic element, the haptic driver being operable to move the atleast one magnetic element in response to detecting an input force ortouch applied to the input tool and induce movement of the input toolrelative to the housing, wherein the input force or touch issubstantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the input tool. 2.The computing device system of claim 1, wherein the input tool includesa sensor to transduce the force or touch applied to the input tool,wherein the haptic driver is operable to move the at least one magneticelement in response to a signal sensed by the sensor.
 3. The computingdevice system of claim 1, wherein the surface of the housing ispositioned in a recess defined by the housing.
 4. The computing devicesystem of claim 1, wherein the haptic driver comprises a coil, a thirdmagnetic element, a motor, a piezoelectric driver, or a vibratorcontrollable by the computing device.
 5. The computing device system ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one magnetic element comprises a structurehaving reversible magnetic polarity, and wherein the haptic driver iscontrollable to reverse polarity of the structure.
 6. The computingdevice system of claim 1, wherein the haptic driver is configured torepel the input tool from the housing.
 7. The computing device system ofclaim 1, wherein the movement of the input tool relative to the housingis in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the input tool.8. The computing device system of claim 1, wherein the haptic driver isconfigured to induce a movement of the input tool relative to thehousing in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of theinput tool.
 9. The computing device system of claim 1, wherein thehaptic driver is configured to produce an audible indicator.
 10. Acomputing input device system, comprising: an input tool including afirst magnetic element; and a computing device having a housing, aprocessor, a memory device, and a second magnetic element configured tomagnetically attract the first magnetic element to a first position,wherein in the first position, the input tool contacts the housing;wherein the memory device includes electronic instructions encodedthereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor todetect a movement of the input tool from the first position to a secondposition in response to a force applied by a user object, wherein in thesecond position, the input tool contacts the housing.
 11. The computinginput device system of claim 10, wherein the movement is a slidingmovement against the housing.
 12. The computing input device system ofclaim 10, wherein the input tool is biased from the second position tothe first position by the first magnetic element and the second magneticelement.
 13. The computing input device system of claim 10, wherein themovement is at least partially directed parallel to a longitudinal axisof the input tool.
 14. The computing input device system of claim 10,wherein the movement is a lateral movement relative to a longitudinalaxis of the input tool.
 15. The computing input device system of claim10, wherein the housing includes a recess, the input tool is positionedin the recess while in the first position, and the input tool ispositioned in the recess while in the second position.
 16. An inputdevice feedback system, comprising: a chassis; a computing device; aninput tool including a sensor and a feedback driver, the input toolbeing positionable relative to the chassis in a first configuration anda second configuration, wherein: in the first configuration, the inputtool is spaced away from the chassis and the feedback driver isconfigured to detect a first input provided to the input tool by a userof the input tool via the sensor of the input tool and, in response tothe first input, output a first signal; in the second configuration, theinput tool contacts the chassis and the feedback driver is configured todetect a second input provided to the input tool by the user via thesensor of the input tool and, in response to the second input, output asecond signal, the first signal being unique relative to the secondsignal.
 17. The input device feedback system of claim 16, wherein thefeedback driver is configured to output visual feedback.
 18. The inputdevice feedback system of claim 16, wherein the feedback driver isconfigured to output haptic feedback.
 19. The input device feedbacksystem of claim 16, wherein the first input or the second input is atouch on a surface of the input tool and the sensor is configured todetect the touch on the surface of the input tool.
 20. The input devicefeedback system of claim 16, wherein the sensor comprises a first sensorand a second sensor separate from the first sensor, wherein the firstinput is provided to the first sensor, and wherein the second input isprovided to the second sensor.